R E S O L U T I O N
 1-1           WHEREAS, The State of Texas is home to the largest number of
 1-2     emu farms in the country, and this is truly a notable distinction
 1-3     for our state; and
 1-4           WHEREAS, Native to Australia, the emu is a large flightless
 1-5     bird whose hardy nature has allowed it to quickly adapt to the
 1-6     Texas climate; and
 1-7           WHEREAS, This remarkable fowl is environmentally friendly to
 1-8     raise and produces a healthy meat that is lower in fat and higher
 1-9     in protein than other red meats, chicken, or turkey; and
1-10           WHEREAS, Other useful emu products include the bird's unique
1-11     and beneficial oil and a soft, supple hide that is popularly used
1-12     in the fashion industry and by master boot makers; and
1-13           WHEREAS, Diversification is essential to promoting
1-14     agricultural growth and prosperity in Texas, and the Texas Emu
1-15     Association is playing a significant role in that regard; and
1-16           WHEREAS, The emu is not only a visually striking addition to
1-17     the Texas landscape, but also a potential boon to the agricultural
1-18     economy of the Lone Star State and it is indeed appropriate that
1-19     its significance be acknowledged at this time; now, therefore, be
1-20     it
1-21           RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 77th Texas
1-22     Legislature hereby recognize April 7-15, 2001, as Emu Awareness
1-23     Week in Texas.
                                                                    Morrison
                                             _______________________________
                                                   Speaker of the House
               I certify that H.R. No. 555 was adopted by the House on April
         20, 2001, by a non-record vote.
                                             _______________________________
                                                 Chief Clerk of the House